Mary Fowler ‘grateful’ to win PFA player award for the second time

One of the Matildas’ most popular players has been recognised by her peers for her good form.

Matildas star Mary Fowler has been named the PFA’s young women’s footballer of the year, joining national teammates Ellie Carpenter and Alex Chidiac as two-time winners of the award.

Fowler, 21, said the award, voted on by her peers, meant “a lot” to her,

“It’s one of the best awards I can receive because getting something from the players I play alongside, and play against, it means ... that they think I’m doing well and give me that kind of recognition,” said the Manchester City attacking weapon, who also took home the award in 2022.

“I just feel super grateful for that.”

Mary Fowler’s form for Manchester City and the Matildas has been recognised by her peers. Picture: Matt McNulty/Getty Images

The PFA young men’s footballer of the year gong went to New Zealand international goalkeeper Alex Paulsen, who earnt the Harry Kewell Medal with a superb A-League season for Wellington Phoenix.

Paulsen, who will play for new A-League outfit Auckland FC this season on loan from English Premier League club Bournemouth, is the third New Zealander to win the award, following on from Marco Rojas (2013) and Liberato Cacace (2020).

“I’m proud to receive such a prestigious award,” Paulsen said.

““Only two Kiwis have

won this award (previously) so to be up in that bracket is amazing and I’m really

proud of receiving such an accolade.

“It means more to be voted by my peers and my teammates. I feel very honoured to

receive this award.”